Yes, Shannon and Amanda and I went to Universal's Islands of Adventure to visit the new(ish?) Harry Potter attraction! I won't talk about the Hogwarts ride because I don't want to ruin the surprise if you're a fan who hasn't been yet...and if you're not a fan, well, you probably won't care anyway :)

I will talk about our experience at Three Broomsticks, the restaurant at "Potterland." First of all, the attention to detail was amazing. I'd heard that some of the designers for the Harry Potter attractions were former Disney imagineers who had been laid off, and I have to say the quality of work was up to par.

I got such a kick out of the fact that Hogshead beer (their own brew) was on tap...next to Miller Lite!

And yes, butterbeer is as good as they say it is.

The food was pretty good, too. It's a kind of tavern fare, with drumsticks and roasts and what not. I had the shepherd's pie, and it was full of potatoey cheesy goodness.

We also might have split some strawberry chocolate thing for dessert. The fact that we didn't order three of these took lots of self control.

Have any of you Harry Potter fans made the pilgrimage to Orlando yet? What'd you think?

The husband and I were just there at the end of September/beginning of October! I thought they did an excellent job constructing the land and having everything come to life. The details were amazing!! The ride through the castle?? Wow..!!!

The only thing I wish they had would be actors dressed up as witches and wizards, wondering about and interacting with you as you stroll through town. Something similar to what they do in Hollywood Studios. How awesome would that be to really bring the magic to life?

I was just there for a 2nd time this past weekend! I think the Harry Potter area is really well done and the ride in the castle is freaking amazing. We haven't eaten anything in the area though...still never ordered a butterbeer! But then again, we aren't big on super sweet drinks, and I heard it is kind of like cream soda/butterscotch flavored somewhat??? It still looks fantastic though...those mugs floating around the park filled with foamy butterbeer are so fun!